Lawn Bowling STARTS May 23, 2023!

Welcome to the Paris Lawn Bowling Club, an historical Paris institution steeped in tradition and camaraderie. Our roots trace back to the year 1884, when a group of enthusiasts first gathered on the grounds of the Presbyterian Church on Grand River Street North. Before finding its official home, the club's greens saw sun and laughter on Andrew Baird's front yard beside the Elm Street skating rink. In 1893, progress led us to our present location, as the Paris Presbyterian Church took shape where we once played. The land we now occupy was rented, and it was during this transformative period that the Paris Lawn Tennis & Bowling Club was born.

In 1928, Reginald Turnbull emerged as a philanthropic beacon for our club. By consolidating the deeds and generously gifting the land, he gave us a permanent home. Alongside this heartfelt gesture, Turnbull selflessly funded the construction of a clubhouse and all other essential amenities.

Evolution has been a constant companion of our club's journey. In 1928, a pivotal meeting chaired by Matthew Deans ushered in a ladies' section, paving the way for a legacy that stretched into the 1980s. The fabric of our community was further woven in 1948 when a new clubhouse, the one we proudly inhabit today, replaced its predecessor. For decades, prosperity graced our doorstep until the early 1980s, when a dip in membership posed challenges that demanded innovative solutions.

Amidst these trials, the Paris Lawn Bowling Club demonstrated its resilience. In 1986, a transformative moment saw the club's property exchanged with the Town of Paris for a symbolic dollar. Subsequent years saw fluctuations in membership numbers, with both highs and lows. In 2015, a mere 13 members remained, prompting a rallying call to action in 2016, led by David Powell. This clarion challenge invigorated our spirit, setting the stage for an eventual and sustained resurgence. Since then we have had a steady growth in membership and now, at the end of our 2023 season, we look forward to an exciting future next year. 

 Continuing our history of close partnership with the County of Brant, Council approved funding in 2023 for a replacement clubhouse on the site of the 1948 building.  Construction is beginning in September 2023, with completion anticipated to occur in time for the 2024 lawn bowling season which begins in May of each year. More information can be found at the County website at https://engagebrant.ca/paris-lawn-bowling-club 

With over a century of passion, perseverance, and community at our core, the Paris Lawn Bowling Club invites you to join us in creating history, making memories, and embracing the timeless sport that has united us through the years. We welcome everyone from Paris and the surrounding area to join the Paris Lawn Bowling Club in May of 2024. It will be an exciting time in our long history as we begin a new chapter, in a new building, sharing our lovely facilities and grounds with other community groups.